On holiday you’ll find cabs from the Barcelona taxi system everywhere – you likely won’t wait more than a minute and prices are cheaper than most major European cities.
With a few precautions taking a taxi in Barcelona can be a great way to get around.
Ready to go already? Make sure you download Barcelona’s official taxi app: with your first trip, using the buttons below, you’ll get a €50% discount on your first ride using the code eut2mba12.
How to Get a Taxi in Barcelona
Honestly, if you’ve picked one of the best areas to stay in Barcelona you likely won’t have to wait more than a few minutes – it’s super easy to hail an official black and yellow taxi in the street.
Free taxis have fluorescent green lights in the windows.
To book a taxi in advance you can call +34 93 225 0000 (mandatory for more than 4 passengers), though it can be tough to book one in English.
That’s why I suggest using Barcelona’s version of Uber:
⚠️ Warning ⚠️: Especially in high season, it’s very hard to flag down a cab in Barcelona city centre.
It is highly recommended to download the FreeNow app which can call you a taxi to anywhere in the city – just sign up using the link below!
If you use the Barcelona Hacks referral code eut2mba12 you’ll even get 50% off your first ride.
- 🚕 Download now: FreeNow Barcelona Taxi App (with 50% discount off first ride)
Barcelona Taxi Prices
There is a minimum charge of €2.55 depending on the time of day.
A typical taxi trip in the city costs €7.00 to €15.00.
| T1* 2025 | T2* 2025 | T3* 2025 | T4* 2025 | |
| Fixed minimum | €2.75 | €2.75 | €0 | €45.00 |
| Per km | €1.32 | €1.62 | €0 | n/a |
| One hour waiting | €26.95 | €26.95 | €0 | n/a |
- Tariff T1. Weekdays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Tariff T2. Weekdays from 8:00 pm to 8:00 am + Saturdays and holidays from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
- Tariff T3. This is a fixed price tariff that can only be booked using an app. For more info consult the list of taxi companies that use apps in Barcelona. Basically, the fare will be ‘locked in’ from the moment of booking so no meter runs.
- Tariff T4. This is the fixed price of a taxi journey from Barcelona El Prat Airport to the Port of Barcelona.
Supplements:
- Airport: €4.50 (the minimum charge to Barcelona is €21.00).
- Barcelona cruise terminal/port: €4.50.
- Major Barcelona transit stations (Sants and the Exhibition Centre): €2.50.
- Special nights (23-24 June, 24-25-31 December, January 1st): €3.10.
- Wheelchairs, strollers, guide dog: Free.
- 4-8 passenger vehicles: €4.50
Taxis at Barcelona Airport
There are taxi stands in both terminals which are easily found following the signs outside departures. The minimum airport charge from El Prat airport is €21.00.
The typical cost of a taxi from Barcelona airport to the centre is between €30.00 to €35.00. From Terminal 1 (T1) expect to pay about €30.00 while Terminal 2 (T2) is about €35.00.
For groups larger than four ask one of the taxi stand attendants to call a van taxi (€4.50 supplement).
Barcelona Taxi Safety and Complaints
This isn’t a trip to the ‘big square’ in Marrakesh – we’re taking a taxi in Barcelona!
Drivers are required by law to run on the meter so you’re unlikely to get ripped off.
The ones I’ve dealt with are honest. Whether I’m speaking to them in Spanish or doing a ‘marketing test’ in English the results are the same: a logical route with no hassles.
I’ve heard very few bad Barcelona taxi stories, and most came from people who enjoyed Barcelona’s best nightlife a little too much. If you’re tipsy just get in that cab, pronounce the name of your hotel or Airbnb confidently, and pay attention!
Bad experience? Ask for a receipt (un recibo) and cite it using this taxi complaint form.
The form must be mailed to: Metropolitan Taxi Institute, Carrer Número 62 No. 18, Barcelona, Spain, 08040.
Wheelchair Accessible Taxis in Barcelona
While typical Barcelona taxis are not outfitted for disabled visitors there is a separate company called Taxi Amic. These spacious tailor-made taxis come with a special ramp to accommodate wheelchairs.
Timetable: weekdays from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, weekends 8:00 am to 10:00 pm.
You can book the taxi online (with 24 hour’s notice) at the Taxi Amic website.
To book a taxi via phone call Taxi Amic at +34 934 208 088.
Barcelona Taxi Hacks
- Taxis with green lights can’t pick you up within 200 meters of any of Barcelona’s taxi stands.
- Don’t tip the drivers (tipping is not expected anywhere in Spain).
- For €2-3 extra you can call for an ‘ecological’ taxi at (0034) 932-783-000.
- If your hotel is near the airport check first to see if your hotel includes free shuttle service.
- Supplements are usually added at the end of the trip.
- Many of the smaller tourist streets in the Gotico, Raval, and Born are pedestrian-only. Check your destination and try to find a logical drop-off point in advance to avoid the driver giving you the run-around.
- Make sure you’re heading the right direction. Most Barcelona streets are one-way, so often a quick look on your smart phone GPS to position yourself on the right side of the street could save you money.
- The lost property contacts are +34 90 210 1564 or [email protected].
When to Take a Taxi in Barcelona
It’s so easy to get around Barcelona by public transport that taking taxis can be impractical.
For this reason I suggest taking a taxi in Barcelona if:
- You’re in a big hurry.
- The company is paying.
- It’s raining (rare).
- You’ve had a few drinks (not rare).
- You’re made of money (very rare).
If you’re going anywhere in groups of three or four the price difference between a taxi and the metro is negligible. You’ll get nearly anywhere central for 2-3 euros each.
Especially at night when Barcelona public buses run less frequently, getting an extra 45 minutes of sleep and not dragging your luggage around town at 4:00 am might be worth the extra money.
TAXILEADER – Barcelona Airport Taxi Transfer
Taxis are surely the quickest way to get to your hotel from the airport.
A ton of people have been asking me if there are any booking services and for this reason I’ve decided to go ahead and partner with Taxileader and their super efficient airport transfer to and from El Prat.
By clicking the button below you’ll get a free trip estimate in just seconds.
After using this service personally I can say the the prices are honest and many of my readers have said the same.
What’s cool is that you’ll have a little James Bond moment by arriving to your driver holding a sign with your name on it.
To book you’ll simply have to leave a valid credit card and a 20% deposit as a guarantee. You’ll only end up being charged at the end of the journey. If you want you can also pay in cash.
If you’re visiting Barcelona with kids you’ll also be entitled to a car seat or booster seat for free!
Booking Taxis via the Free Now App
At the end of the day this service combines the convenience and preciseness of Uber with the legitimacy and safety of using the city’s black and yellow cabs.
Prices
Since this app utilizes the city’s black and yellow cabs the price is the same as quoted above.
The good thing about booking using the app however that the address and directions will be more precise and there’s no way the cab driver can rip you off taking the long way. It also beats standing on the corner waiting.
Another advantage? With your first trip, using the buttons below, you’ll get a €50% discount on your first ride using the code eut2mba12.
How to Book a Taxi in Barcelona
To book a taxi in Barcelona via Free Now just follow the instructions below:
- Download the app using the buttons above.
- Indicate your personal details and payment methods: this way you won’t have to fool around with giving cash to the driver and there’s no chance they won’t know where it is since it’s connected to the GPS.
- Under the “promo code” portion of the app insert the discount code “ashley.pil” to have a €5.00 discount on your first trip.
- You’ll then need to insert your pickup and drop off points (just like Uber) and you’ll be quoted an estimate on the price.
- Get in and enjoy the ride! You’ll be able to follow the journey progress on your phone.
- You’ll be debited the price at the ride’s conclusion.
As of 2025 you can also order your Free Now taxi adapted for disabled visitors.
The fee for these special taxis is €15.00.
Related: How Many Days Should I Stay in Barcelona?
Barcelona Taxi FAQ
Do Barcelona taxis take credit cards?
Yes, even if the taxi drivers say no – all of the official black and yellow city taxis do take cards. You can pay by debit or credit. Don’t fall for it if they ask for cash, even though this is rare.
How to get a taxi in Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of the most taxi-filled cities in the world so it’s very possible to flag one on pretty much every corner in the city centre. It’s even more convenient ordering the official black and yellow cabs from the app Free Now.
Are there taxis at Barcelona airport?
Yes, both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Barcelona airport have designated taxi stands. You simply need to walk out of the terminal and you’ll find them. Expect to wait 10-15 minutes at peak times.
Are Barcelona taxis safe?
Yes, all Barcelona city taxis are heavily regulated and the taxi drivers are forced to run on the meter – so getting ripped off is incredibly rare. To make the experience even more secure you can book your taxi using the app Free Now.
Are taxis cheap in Barcelona?
Barcelona taxis are cheaper than other major European cities. The fixed minimum of €2.55 is about average, though the €1.23 fee per kilometre is much cheaper than a place like London (£1.71).
Are taxis expensive in Barcelona?
Compared to other major European cities the prices for Barcelona taxis are quite moderate. The per kilometre price is about 15% cheaper than capitals like Paris and London, and being a smaller city the typical trip is much shorter. Expect to pay between €10.00 and €20.00 for a typical city centre ride.
Still Wondering How to Take a Taxi in Barcelona?
You’re ready for your Barcelona taxi experience but if you’re not sure make to drop me a line in the comments below with your destination and I’ll let you know the best way to get around.
Also don’t be afraid to join the taxi discussion by first giving me a like on Facebook and then joining my group I’m Off to Barcelona – here you can ask any questions, air out grievances, and chat with thousands of Barcelona travelers.
Anything goes!
Content Manager
14 years of Barcelona experience and not slowing down anytime soon! I've seen the city through the eyes of a misguided, Sangria-filled tourist and a responsible local fluent in Spanish and everything Barcelona. I co-founded Barcelona Hacks to help visitors discover the city with insider info - just try me! :)
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August 10, 2022 at 4:00 pmHi. I will be traveling with my elderly parents next month and there will be 5 of us total. What is the best way to go around Barcelona? We will be staying 5 mins away from Plaza Espanya. I understand that we may need a bigger taxi. Any advice? Thank you!
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August 12, 2022 at 5:24 pmTeam MemberAshHi Elizabeth, I responded to your email but will leave this here should somebody else have a similar question... 99% of the taxis going around Barcelona are 4 seaters so you're going to need to call a specific taxi for 5+. Easiest way to do this is using the FreeNow app link above. With each booking to specify the type of car, just like Uber. Cheers,
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August 17, 2022 at 6:27 pmNoted! I appreciate all your help. Thank you!!
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August 18, 2022 at 1:38 pmTeam MemberAshNo problem at all Elizabeth :)
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June 13, 2022 at 6:58 amHi! I will be Staying in the Gothic quarter which is a pedestrian only zone. Will a taxi driver be able to find the best drop off location based upon the address I have? Or will I need to find a taxi accessible address ahead of time?
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June 13, 2022 at 2:40 pmTeam MemberAshHi Marla, The taxi drivers are very familiar with the best drop off points, especially in the Gothic Quarter. Just give them the address of where you're staying and let them do the rest :) Cheers,
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April 30, 2022 at 7:57 pmWe want to include a trip to a Barcelona beach on the one full day we have there. Staying at a hotel on Las Ramblas. Not much practical information about beaches, like whether there are places to change and lockers to leave stuff. I don't see a problem taking a taxi there, but are there taxi stands to find one coming back? Especially if phone app is not installed (US phone and questionable roaming service).
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May 4, 2022 at 3:51 pmTeam MemberAshHi Ross, The great thing about Barcelona is that in most busy areas you can flag cabs easily. That said, near the beach I'd head to Passeig de Joan de Borbó as it's the main street in Barceloneta (the main beach area) so it'll be impossible not to. If I'm not mistaken there are a few ranks along it as well. As for lockers, your only choice is going to the Espai Mar which is a health centre along Barceloneta Beach. They rent out their lockers there for €4.50 a day and you can use the change room facilities. Cheers,
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August 2, 2020 at 8:24 pmHi Ash, thanks for this - so useful! What would you recommend if we are coming from the airport and want to make a stop on the way to our final destination in Gracia. The stop should only take 5 minutes, and is only a few minutes away from the final stop (picking up keys for the flat). There will be two of us with 4 large suitcases and two small, so we will probably need a big car as well. Are taxi drivers in Barcelona ok with doing multiple stops and waiting? Thanks so much
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August 4, 2020 at 12:49 pmTeam MemberAshHi KK, Thanks for your kind words, always glad to help :) I've asked taxi drivers to make multiple stops before and they've never had a problem, especially if it's just a few minutes away. Just make sure you have the stops clearly communicated (obviously if you give them both addresses it's even better) before you're underway and it'll be fine. Cheers, Ash
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July 15, 2020 at 5:21 pmHi Ash, I am moving from one apartment to the other in Barcelona city but need help with carrying my bags as I am one person with 2 medium-sized bags of about 20 kilos each. I have looked into Mytaxi or now called Freenow, but not sure if they have an option that will assure my driver will help me with what I want. I do live on the first floor where there are very narrow stairs. Any suggestions?
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July 15, 2020 at 6:03 pmTeam MemberAshHi Amy, When I did a move back in February I made sure to call a van taxi via FreeNow... I had a friend help move the stuff down to the street (and guard it!) and then when the van pulled up we put everything in with the help of a driver. Sure, it's a premium for the van taxi but compared to paying movers it's a hell of a deal... two bags shouldn't be a big deal. If you have somebody to help it's even easier... should be no sweat :) Ash
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July 15, 2020 at 3:44 pmHello, We will stay in Estartit and would need to have a taxi driver to Barcelona airport, 3 persons. What do you suggest, which company with best prices and possibility to book in advance. Thanks for your help.
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July 15, 2020 at 6:01 pmTeam MemberAshHi Cathy, Thanks for writing :) The company I recommend most is Taxileader and there's a link above explaining how to get a quote... convenience factor is high and prices reasonable :) That said, if you're coming FROM l'Estartit I can't say I have any experience with companies there and I'm not sure if Taxildeader goes there. Also, it's miles away and you're looking at paying more money for the taxi than your flights in! This company here: http://taxiestartit.com/ Puts a quote at €210.00... which split three ways could be worse. I would call them and get a vibe on the service. It's run by English people and seems to have a good reputation. Hope this helps :) Ash
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February 2, 2020 at 5:25 pmDear Ash, Thank you for all the useful information on your site! I tried to get an estimate for a fare from the airport to Castelldefels and TaxiLeader gave me a price of EUR75 for the date and time we arrive - which is 10am during the week and is not a public holiday. I find this very strange give that Castelldefels is much closer to the airport than Barcelona city center. I installed the MyTaxi app and checked there but it says "by meter" and does not give a fare estimate. Any ideas are greatly appreciated!
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February 24, 2020 at 8:20 pmHi, I am travelling to Barcelona with my partner who is in a wheelchair I am just wondering if you could help me with our airport transfers if possible, thankyou
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June 7, 2022 at 12:03 pmHi Ash and thank you in advance for your help. We will be visiting Barcelona in July and staying at Holiday Inn. I have noticed that taxis from El Prat airport only carry small luggage as we will have 10 kilos luggage. Is it so? Regards Simon
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June 8, 2022 at 9:39 amTeam MemberAshHi Simon, I'm not sure I understand. Taxis will carry all major suitcase, though for oversized you may have to pay an extra fee. As for your 10 kilo bags, these are carry on bags so it wouldn't be a problem anyway if they only carry 'small' lugagge, no? Apologies, I don't think I understand the question.
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February 25, 2020 at 10:38 amTeam MemberAshHi Demi, We've gone over this in Facebook but just for the other readers I wanted to refer them to my Barcelona disabled access guide which shows them how to get central from the airport. Cheers, Ash
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September 28, 2019 at 10:15 pmLove your style! Thanks for the info. I had Free Now, but feel confident now to use it the first time for my early morning trip to the airport!
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September 29, 2019 at 1:05 pmTeam MemberAshGreat to hear Sara! Please let me know if you have any questions :)
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September 16, 2019 at 7:50 pmshould you pay by cash or credit card in a taxi
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September 17, 2019 at 12:33 pmHi, You can use both ;)
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September 16, 2019 at 7:49 pmshould you pay by cash or credit card
